MN: Long shots and key passes – Milan need the best version of Calhanoglu against Juve

By Oliver Fisher -

Tonight’s game against Juventus will test the resolve of all Milan players but in particular Hakan Calhanoglu, who has come under heavy fire in recent weeks.

As MilanNews writes, the best version of the playmaker is needed to beat Juventus and continue the battle for the Champions League. He has had a rollercoaster ride at Milan since arriving, but now Pioli’s game system is built around the Turkey international and when he doesn’t get into the game, the team struggle to create.

When Milan’s No.10 does not receive the ball between the lines, the manoeuvre of the team becomes slow and predictable, while when things are going well team-mates are quick to look for him and find him because within a few touches they can be in on goal.

The great technique of the Turk allows him to shoot from outside the box quite a lot too; 2.6 times per game on average to be precise. He also has 3.1 key passes per game in Serie A matches, showing that if he isn’t shooting from dangerous areas he tries to create.

With an expiring contract and ongoing renewal negotiations, the match against Juventus is the perfect opportunity for Calhanoglu to show that he has grown.

Tags AC Milan Hakan Calhanoglu
Serie A Standings

Live football scores . Current table, fixtures & results.